Pontoon Blackjack Online

Pontoon Blackjack needs no introduction for any CA casino players who played cards with their grandma when they were kids.

An old version of the classic game, Pontoon Blackjack is played like conventional Blackjack, but the terminology and rules are slightly different.

A dealer wins all the tied hands, while 'hits' are called 'twists' and a Stand called a 'Stick'.

Other than some extra payouts for certain hands, there's not much difference between Pontoon Blackjack online and conventional American or European Blackjack. Let's take a closer look at why real-money CA Pontoon online is a fun, quick game that can yield big prizes.

Pontoon Blackjack Rules

Pontoon Blackjack is played with six decks of cards, and in most online games Canadian players can bet on up to three hands at once.

The dealer is dealt two cards face down (a huge difference to American or European Blackjack) and players are dealt two cards face up.

Instead of 'hitting', players 'twist' to receive extra cards. They then 'stick' ('stand') when they're finished receiving cards. Players MUST twist if they have less than 15.

A double down bet is allowed and is called a 'Buy'. A 'buy' can be done on any two cards.

The aim, as ever, is to get as close to 21 as possible without going bust. Players earn 2/1 their money if they get dealt a natural Blackjack (compared to 3/2 in other Blackjack games) while they also receive a 2/1 bonus if they hit a 5-card trick.

Here are some key Pontoon Blackjack rules to note:

Pontoon Blackjack is a fun and exciting variety of the casino classic, see as much as 97.9% RTP and win real cash.

BOTH the Dealer's cards are hidden.

The Dealer wins ALL ties.

Players can 'buy' ('double down') another card.

Players have to twist if their hand totals 15 or less.

The dealer must 'twist' (hit) on 16 and a soft 17. He must stick ('stand') on a hard 17.

A Pontoon ('Blackjack') pays 2/1.

A 5-card trick (a 'Charlie') pays 2/1.

Simple Strategy To Win More

There are perhaps two key elements of a Pontoon game that Canada real-cash players must be aware of.

First, the Dealer's cards are face-down at the start of the game. This obviously negates any Insurance bets being able to be taken. However, it also informs your decision when you receive your cards.

Because the 'buy' can be done regardless of what your hand totals (not just on a 9, 10 or 11), and the dealer must twist on 16 or soft 17, it's worth 'buying' if you have low cards. Not only can you have a chance of beating the dealer, you can keep in mind that special 2/1 payout for a 5-card Charlie.

With that 2/1 special payout for a 5-card trick, low cards suddenly become your friend. In any case, if you're forced to twist with a 14 you're in real danger of going bust.

Getting Prepared Online

As with any online casino games, it's good to get some Pontoon Blackjack practice in before you hit the tables for real money.

Printing a cheat sheet is a good way of making sure you know what to do when. A strategy card will show you the best times to stick, twist or buy depending on your hand.

Not seeing the dealer's hand makes your decision-making a little easier, which means Pontoon Blackjack online is simple to pick up. In no time you'll be hitting the Canadian Pontoon sites and crushing the games just like you did when you played your family members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pontoon?

Pontoon is very similar to the traditional blackjack well all know already, but with a twist. There are many additional side bets and the dealer wins all tied bets. You can anticipate some different lingo too, like hits are twists and stands are called sticks.

How is it played?

It is played very much like a regular blackjack game except some of the terminology is different. Another key feature is that both of the dealer’s cards are dealt face down. There are some really fun side bets that are sure to make players a little happier.

What are the odds like?

The odds are really good with the possibility of earning 2:1 if you are dealt a natural. You'll also receive a 2:1 bonus should you hit on a 5 card set up.

Is there a real money option online?

Most definitely! Real money is where all the fun is. Every online casino that our experts recommend offers real money Pontoon.

Where can I play it?

You can play it almost anywhere online. Each of the online blackjack casinos we recommend offers Pontoon to gambling enthusiasts in Canada. Sometimes you can find it at land casinos but the winning options are much better online, where you'll also find the option of free play.

How much is it possible to win?

It is very hard to determine how much total real cash you can win but, keep in mind the odds are really good and better than the regular version of blackjack.

Can I use a system?

There are always systems you can put to good use when playing Pontoon. Many people swear by counting cards as the best way to identify the possibility of a winning hand. It's always worth testing out a few strategies so that you know which one is right for you and how you play.

How does it compare to other variations?

This variation in many ways is a better one, in large part because of the 2:1 odds as opposed to the traditional 3:2 odds or the even odds that are found with some of the more specialized variants.

Can I try the game for free?

Free play is pretty much always an option. It is highly recommended for people trying out a new online casino or a new Pontoon variant. Don’t spend too much time in free mode because you could be missing out on some huge real money winnings.